Business needs life support

Apr 2, 2020 4:09 AM

iliketolol

Views

126423

Likes

2730

Dislikes

93

I work year round to plan events for the spring. There will be no spring this year. I don’t get paid until the event happens and 30 have cancelled. They can’t postpone, these are once-in-a-lifetime things. I feel bad for all the vendors who rely on this revenue, too. Sucks for everyone, clients included. EDIT: I appreciate all the comments, good and bad. I am in a niche market, planning proms & have been for 25 years. Never could I have anticipated such 100% full stop, so I’m a bit shell shocked. It’ll be ok, but far from great. I know a majority of us are in a similar fucked situation, and I sure wish it wasn’t so severe for everyone. The fear comes in waves and it tends to be worse at night. Thank you all for listening.

We took a pay cut. Working hard on trying to stay positive. Life as we know it is over.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

I’m afraid there will be a new normal. And it could make the rich v. poor fight even sharper.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

@OP same here

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

I’m sorry - it sucks.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

This too shall pass. It might pass like a kidney stone, but it’ll pass.

6 years ago | Likes 12 Dislikes 0

That will make for a nice gravestone inscription..

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

'This was the stone'

6 years ago | Likes 5 Dislikes 0

I feel you - if there's any consolation, know you're not alone.

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

I appreciate that. I know I’ll be ok but damn it hits hard.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Can’t postpone? Once-in-a-lifetime? So you either arrange comet-viewing parties or corpse flower-viewing parties or something with babies...

6 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 1

Lol. Proms. Seniors only get 1 shot. But I like your idea of comet parties. :)

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

I bought a Gift Shop in Galveston Tx in February. Had 1 week of good sales. The next week the world went to shit. I had to layoff everyone

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Oh man, I’m so sorry to hear that. Do you have online sales?

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Wedding industry here. Business is destroyed.

6 years ago | Likes 10 Dislikes 0

I know. I’m really sorry you’re caught in this net, too.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Apply for government aid?

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Yup :) Thanks!

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

You are not alone. One day the future will be brighter.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Same. I’ve lost about $11k in event contracts so far.

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

It’s a real heartbreaker. I’m sorry :(

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

I also work for an event company with events in the summer. My boss has not canceled them yet and I think he's in for a rude awakening...

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Unfortunately probably. I had 35 cancel in April and May. I really hope things clear up for the summer for you!

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Same here....self employment is really suffering.

6 years ago | Likes 5 Dislikes 0

But self - enjoyment isn't.

6 years ago | Likes 0 Dislikes 3

Same for freelance dancers. Spring + summer is tour + show season.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

We had a big event lined up working with a local camp site. Not only are they boned because of cancellations, but massive mud slide

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

destroyed half their site. We arnt pulling out, we are gonna change the date and try to keep it going, as well as get help to rebuild.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

That’s really decent of you guys. I think we will see the best in most people during this.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

I work in Boardcasting sports and Photography for weddings. I feel for you a lot.

6 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 0

You know. I feel your pain, too.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Freelance AV tech here. Events and entertainment is completely fucked

6 years ago | Likes 16 Dislikes 0

Yup. I’m sorry - I know you’re going through it, too.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Once in a lifetime events that happen every spring...are you WrestleMania?

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Once in a lifetime, but many lifetimes. Proms :)

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

As a teacher, I feel for this.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Why is it the big corporations are getting huge bailouts and small companies are just kinda left to die

6 years ago | Likes 10 Dislikes 3

Uh... they're not. Stop making stuff up.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 4

-gestures vaguely at elected officials who make money off large businesses-

6 years ago | Likes 8 Dislikes 1

It’s the American way

6 years ago | Likes 8 Dislikes 2

We’re here for you - tell us your troubles...

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Thanks. I believe I’m all talked out for the moment. It’s been a roller coaster!

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

We are going from "Business Survival Mode" to "Survival Mode."

6 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 0

If this is the end of the world, I was hoping for aliens

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

No shit - right???

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

I'm sure people are still going to want to have proms later. Even if its in summer.

6 years ago | Likes 51 Dislikes 2

We are hoping to do some reunion kind of thing. Everyone is open to anything at this point but it’s a wait and see for sure.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

This won’t be over that soon

6 years ago | Likes 23 Dislikes 0

Shhhhhh!

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Sucks

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

This is why we need Universal Basic Income.

6 years ago | Likes 41 Dislikes 20

Universal basic income will do nothing after inflation, it is a meaningless fantasy. You cant keep printing fiat currency and expecting it t

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 1

Hold any value

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 1

Who pays for UBI? The government. Who pays the government? We do, with taxes. How does the government get taxes? Payroll & income tax. >

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

How does UBI make sense if nobody is working to pay the taxes to the government which needs said taxes to pay the UBI?

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

It will come, along with mandatory vaccinations and a cashless society.

6 years ago | Likes 5 Dislikes 4

How is a business owner receiving a modicum of money from the govt going to help them pay all of their employees and operating costs?

6 years ago | Likes 20 Dislikes 12

It wouldn't. that's not even close to the point

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 2

The employees would also get the income so they wouldn't need the pay when no events are held.

6 years ago | Likes 34 Dislikes 3

The business will still default, but at least it'll keep the owner above the poverty line.

6 years ago | Likes 8 Dislikes 1

Oh, and also the employees of course.

6 years ago | Likes 8 Dislikes 1

And when the following month's bills come in? They need a job, but if the business is gone, then they need to find a new one. :-/

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

In an ideal, make believe world this would happen

6 years ago | Likes 7 Dislikes 4

Make believe because we wouldn't have religiously fanatical capitalists, or?

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 5

So yes

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Rather than make-believe, we need to make what we believe.

6 years ago | Likes 7 Dislikes 4

I work at conventions. No convention season=so much less income. The Netherlands is now giving income to entrepeneurs (of al sizes),

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Maybe your country has something similar? If you have an accountant get in touch and see if there is a grant (is that the right word?)

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

I am looking into everything out there. I’m sorry to hear about your loss, too. It’s global, which makes it even scarier.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

So much sucking.

6 years ago | Likes 36 Dislikes 2

Didn't you hear...the events are called off. There will be none of that!

6 years ago | Likes 20 Dislikes 0

$20 is $20

6 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 0

Believe me, I’ve been saying that in my head a lot lately. Mostly for levity, but...

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

OR after inflation $10

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

It's not gone suck itself...

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

sorry to hear this. have you looked into - https://www.sba.gov/document/sba-form--paycheck-protection-program-ppp-sample-application-form

6 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 0

Yeah look into this OP. Govt is giving small business loans in mass. Despite imgur's hate with it.

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Lol. Thank you. I’m exploring all sba and government options.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

I have looked into the SBA offerings. Thank you!

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

i know nothing about anything, but a lawyer friend suggested this. small business loan, from the government. low interest.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

i'm in the same boat as you, i do promotional material for events. bunch of jobs cancelled. so we'll see how this goes.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

regardless, hope you are able to weather this storm, as with everyone in this position. the stress is high.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

It is super stressful. I know very few are immune. I appreciate your kindness!

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

It’s quite the deep hole, potentially. I hope we can get back to normal sooner rather than later. Fingers crossed for you, too!

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

There's some forgiveable loans and grants too https://www.sba.gov/page/coronavirus-covid-19-small-business-guidance-loan-resources

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Thank you! I’m looking into all options :)

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

The bailout should be for people like you. None should have went to the rich. NONE

6 years ago | Likes 15 Dislikes 1

Fucking seriously?? You want to bail out the local prom shop? Thank god you weren't put in charge.

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 4

I don’t need a bail out. Just some fucking compassion.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Amen to that.

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

I feel you... it has crushed my business too.

6 years ago | Likes 334 Dislikes 2

Send a thank you letter to Chinese

6 years ago | Likes 7 Dislikes 9

I’m really sorry to hear that :(

6 years ago | Likes 80 Dislikes 1

My husband's business is hurting as well..

6 years ago | Likes 5 Dislikes 1

I’m sorry. It’s so hard across the board. :(

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Is there any way to shift your business to the digital realm?

6 years ago | Likes 23 Dislikes 0

I’m brainstorming everything at this point :)

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Mine too. Applying for everything.

6 years ago | Likes 8 Dislikes 0

My partner and I are in design and lite construction. Everything has canceled/been put on hold. We’re going to try and apply for some aid

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

As an artist that makes 40% of my yearly income on the sales during the big Easter show, this situation is horrible.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

I’m sorry. Do you have online options?

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

And yes, that's how art works for us in the field, we work for many, many months to sell at a few exhibitions each year.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Exactly. It’s frustrating and we’re not alone. Unfortunately

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

My wife's, too. Everything is groups in the summer.

6 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 0

Same thing here, at least we can cry together, alone

6 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 0

I’m with you. ?it’s over soon!

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

What kind of business is it?

6 years ago | Likes 5 Dislikes 0

I don't know about the others, but I sell pre-owned butt plugs. These days people don't buy just any plug, they want a certification of use.

6 years ago | Likes 13 Dislikes 3

Certified pre-owned. I get it ?

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

I mean, it's gotta be certified. Otherwise, how can they be sure?!

6 years ago | Likes 9 Dislikes 0

What do you guys do as businesses? We, as a community, may be able to assist in some way! Let us know!

6 years ago | Likes 136 Dislikes 4

I set up big conventions in the city. We've even lost the Food and Wine Expo, a rich persons playground.

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

I appreciate the concern and offer. I do love this community!

6 years ago | Likes 116 Dislikes 1

Have you considered going digital? The kids might help. Could be a fun theme! Social distant Tron Prom!

6 years ago | Likes 15 Dislikes 1

VR is becoming essential. I'd look at Vive's solution for virtual events with better avatars.

6 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 2

Proms

6 years ago | Likes 219 Dislikes 3

Aww shit man. Feels for you.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Pivot: make at home prom kits they can order and use in video chat things. Fill with prom like things (idk what since I never went to prom).

6 years ago | Likes 11 Dislikes 0

My graduating class was only 5 people, and people are still trying to do proms online, there are options even if they are less profitable.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Man, that’s tough. Was thinking about those a lot; I’m a teacher.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

My friend helps plan and run "Vintage Proms" for adults. You can throw proms whenever!

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Some schools here actually do proms in the fall, just a thought

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

I know this isn't helpful but if you're the one to figure out a way to salvage some kind of digital prom, you'll have a prime niche /1

6 years ago | Likes 10 Dislikes 0

and be a hero to a graduating class that otherwise is going to remember their senior year as 'the one that sucked because we missed out'. /2

6 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 0

Obviously dancing is out, but any sort of event would put a smile on some faces, just for the effort.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

I just heard that WV is doing a state wide prom in July to make up for not being able to do it now. Perhaps more states will do this.

6 years ago | Likes 67 Dislikes 1

Can you imagine the number of virginities lost that night?!?!

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Lost lost

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Yeah that wont happen either. Any estimate of getting back to normality before Autumn is BS

6 years ago | Likes 41 Dislikes 0

All-right, alright! I know where I'll be in July... PS That piece of shit Epstein didn't kill himself. v

6 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 1

We’re taking about that in different districts. I hope we can work something out for everyone

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

I'll get downvoted to hell, but I'd like to think you shouldn't run a business that's only profitable once a year.

6 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 4

So any profession relating to taxes is out then?

6 years ago | Likes 10 Dislikes 0

Many industries are seasonal. It’s isn’t ideal, but it’s part of those businesses. Farming, ranching, construction, fishing, some sales even

6 years ago | Likes 13 Dislikes 0

Are you the Easter bunny?

6 years ago | Likes 1559 Dislikes 6

6 people don’t get the joke.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

6 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 0

Goddamn, the comment section has definitely been my main source of humor in the dark times. Take your +1

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Just remembered some porn I saw some years ago. "You're going to make me egg!"

6 years ago | Likes 12 Dislikes 0

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 1

No the Easter Bunny’s facilitator.

6 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 0

Lol. At least I’d have a lot of chocolate!

6 years ago | Likes 488 Dislikes 5

and that nasty ass Cadbury eggs.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 1

Wedding planner??

6 years ago | Likes 5 Dislikes 1

Not if you keep giving it away for free

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Or op is a liar looking for fake Internet points

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 1

You didn't answer his question.

6 years ago | Likes 440 Dislikes 1

Weddings dumbass

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 1

OP answered "proms" in another comment chain.

6 years ago | Likes 29 Dislikes 0

Vegas would hint something kinky, but the relevance of Spring... my bet is on motorcycling stuff.

6 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 1

Proms

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Interesting............ I always knew the Easter Bunny was real....... I always knew......... *clenches Easter basket.. loads shot gun....*

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Jazzfest??

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

The handles on the overhead crates make it look like Fry has black bunny ears. True story @OP!

6 years ago | Likes 14 Dislikes 0

I always thought horns

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Illuminati confirmed.

6 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 0

I’m guessing wedding coordinator or something.

6 years ago | Likes 86 Dislikes 0

Don't people get wed all around the year?

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Event planner? Spring festival? Comic con? Hmm one in a lifetime?... Corpse Flower Botanist?

6 years ago | Likes 46 Dislikes 0

Weddings aren't just in spring

6 years ago | Likes 12 Dislikes 1

Tell that to everyone on Instagram

6 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 0

They said they do Proms in another comment thread.

6 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 0

Lol that is very postpone-able, just the seniors who are leaving for college couldn’t attend, that’s a small percentage of a high school

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

That's, statistically, not a once in a lifetime thing, unfortunately...

6 years ago | Likes 11 Dislikes 0

You only have one prom at that one age of your life which is iconic

6 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 0